The ACT party has released figures that it says prove prison works as an effective deterrent to crime.
Its justice spokesperson, David Garrett, says the figures were included in a response to a written parliamentary question he asked the Corrections Minister.
They show that, as of last month, 65% of the prison population (4315 inmates) had served at least one prior sentence, and 35% (2312) had served three sentences.
Mr Garrett says the information flies in the face of those who claim that prison is ineffective and that ACT's proposed "three strikes and you're out" law wouldn't work.
Parliament's law and order select committee is due to report back on the proposed "three strikes" legislation at the end of this month.
